Bound By Fate

Chapter 3: The Contract

The next morning, Aisha found herself seated in a plush leather chair inside a conference room that reeked of opulence. The walls were lined with sleek, dark wood, and the massive glass windows overlooked the bustling cityscape far below. Aisha had never imagined she would be in such a place, sitting across from one of the most powerful men in the country.

Arjun Mehra was every bit as imposing in daylight as he had been in the dim light of his car. He sat at the head of the table, his sharp eyes focused on the legal documents spread before them. His lawyer, a silver-haired man with a no-nonsense demeanor, was explaining the terms of the contract, but Aisha's mind kept drifting to the sheer absurdity of the situation.

A marriage contract. She was about to sign a legal agreement that would bind her to a man she barely knew for a full year, all for the sake of money. The pen in her hand felt heavy, almost as if it were weighed down by the enormity of the decision she was about to make.

"The terms are straightforward," the lawyer said, snapping Aisha back to the present. "You and Mr. Mehra will be legally married, with all public appearances reflecting the image of a happily married couple. In private, however, the relationship will remain strictly professional. There will be no physical or emotional obligations between you."

Aisha nodded, though the words made her stomach twist. She had always imagined her wedding day as something special, filled with love and joy, not a cold, calculated transaction.

"Additionally," the lawyer continued, "you will receive a monthly stipend to cover your sister's education and living expenses. Upon the completion of the contract, a substantial sum will be transferred to your account, ensuring your financial security."

The lawyer pushed the contract toward her, along with a pen. "If you agree to the terms, please sign here."

Aisha hesitated, her fingers trembling slightly. She glanced at Arjun, who was watching her with an unreadable expression. His gaze was intense, but there was something in his eyes-something almost vulnerable-that made her pause.

"You can take your time," Arjun said quietly, his tone softer than she expected. "This is a significant decision. I don't want you to feel pressured."

Aisha took a deep breath. She had already made her decision the night before, but sitting here, with the contract in front of her, the reality of it all hit her like a tidal wave. She thought of Meera, of the future she wanted to give her. This was a sacrifice, yes, but one that could change their lives for the better.

Steeling herself, Aisha picked up the pen and signed her name on the dotted line. As she handed the contract back to the lawyer, she felt a strange mixture of relief and fear. The deal was done. There was no turning back now.

"Thank you," Arjun said, his voice steady. "I'll have my staff make all the necessary arrangements. We'll announce our engagement at the gala next weekend."

Aisha blinked. "Gala?"

"Yes, the Mehra Foundation's annual charity gala. It will be the perfect opportunity to introduce you to society as my fiancée. Don't worry, we'll have everything taken care of-the dress, the jewelry, the press. All you need to do is be there."

Aisha's mind reeled. She had never attended anything as grand as a gala, let alone as someone's fiancée. The thought of being thrust into the spotlight, of facing the scrutiny of high society, terrified her.

"Is that really necessary?" she asked, her voice wavering.

Arjun nodded, his expression serious. "It is. Our marriage needs to be believable, and that starts with convincing everyone at the gala. The sooner we establish our relationship in the public eye, the better."

Aisha swallowed hard. This was happening so fast, too fast. But she had made her choice. She was in this now, for better or for worse.

As she stood to leave, Arjun reached out and gently touched her arm, stopping her. His touch was warm, sending a jolt through her that she hadn't expected.

"Miss Kapoor... Aisha," he said, his tone surprisingly gentle. "I know this is overwhelming. But I want you to know that I'll do everything in my power to make sure you're comfortable during this year. You and your sister will be well taken care of."

Aisha nodded, unable to find the words to respond. She could only hope that she hadn't made a terrible mistake.

As she left the conference room, a part of her wondered what lay ahead. The gala was only the beginning of this strange, new chapter in her life. But she would face it head-on, just as she had faced every challenge that had come before. For Meera's sake, she would do whatever it took.